Germany vs West Germany — 1982 vs 1981
| Manta 400 | Manta 400 Rally Homologation | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 275 hp | 144 hp |
| Torque | 207 lb-ft | 155 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,420 cc | 2,420 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.2 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 143 mph | 129 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.5 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,337 lbs | 2,337 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,518 mm | 2,518 mm |
| Length | 4,465 mm | 4,470 mm |
| Units Produced | 245 | 245 |
| Value (Excellent) | $350,000 | $200,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 9/10 |
On balance, the 1982 Opel Manta 400 makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1982 Opel Manta 400 for outright capability, or the 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Opel Manta. The 1982 and 1981 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1982 Opel Manta 400 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 275 hp compared to 144 hp, a 131-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Opel Manta uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V (CIH-based) displacing 2,420 cc, while the Opel Manta 400 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V with 2,420 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1982 Opel Manta 400 edges ahead at 6.2 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.